Use of insect fat as a pesticide

Abstract

Use of insect fat as a pesticide. The present invention relates to the use of insect fat as a pesticide, particularly against various pests. Figure for the abstract: none.

Description

Title of the invention: Use of insect fat as a pesticide

[0001] The present invention relates to the use of insect fat as a pesticide.

[0002] Measures for controlling pests (or harmful organisms) generally include chemical, biological, physical, mechanical and / or cultural methods. Chemical methods use pesticides, but the consequences of such products are well known and highly problematic. On the one hand, the environmental risks are real and induce consumer distrust. On the other hand, these products are prohibited in organic or sustainable agriculture, which encourages the search for substitutes for these sectors. Finally, due to the known harmful effects of chemical insecticides on humans and the environment and the development of pest resistance, these methods are limited to situations of uncontrollable pest infestation.

[0003] There is therefore a need for natural alternatives to chemical pesticides.

[0004] Several natural pesticides based on vegetable oils exist on the market: in particular, sunflower oil, a contact insecticide, for which authorization has been requested and is in the process of being approved; neem oil (margosa), a natural insecticide and acaricide; or rapeseed oil, a multipurpose insecticide.

[0005] However, the production of these oils requires large cultivable areas, which are therefore not used for food purposes.

[0006] Furthermore, cultural control measures are preventative control methods and require a lot of pre-planning and prior study of host-pest-environment relationships. These methods work on the principle of making the environment less attractive to pests and less favorable for their survival, dispersal, growth, and reproduction. Biological control measures include allowing the accumulation of natural predatory insects in the ecosystem. Physical methods of pest control include the use of physical means such as fences, barriers, or electronic wires. Mechanical methods of control include hand picking, traps, vacuuming, and tillage to disrupt reproduction.

[0007] However, a disadvantage of these methods (cultural and biological) is that they are time-consuming, have to be implemented and planned on a large scale and can be very expensive. Mechanical and physical methods are non-specific and ineffective.

[0008] Thus, there is a need for a method of controlling pests in cultivated plantations, which is inexpensive, easy to implement and also does not suffer from disadvantages of chemical toxicity for humans and the environment. There is also a need for pesticides of non-chemical origin, easy to manufacture and effective.

[0009] The present invention addresses this problem. Its subject is the use of insect fat as a pesticide.

[0010] Said insect fat is of natural origin, i.e. non-chemical. It is easy to obtain; its process of obtaining is relatively simple. Finally, as shown in the examples, it is effective as a pesticide, and effective compared to traditional chemical pesticides.

[0011] The present invention thus relates to the use of an insect fat as a pesticide.

[0012] The present invention also relates to a method of treating a crop, comprising applying a specific insect fat to said crop.

[0013] This insect fat, which is a fatty substance, can be produced locally, and can come from farming based on the vertical farming model, which means that less land area is required compared to other farming methods, without impacting deforestation. It also has a reduced ecological footprint, and is a very interesting alternative to vegetable oils. Finally, the production of this fat does not come at the expense of areas suitable for cultivation for food.

[0014] By "pesticide" is meant a compound which is used to combat organisms considered harmful (or pests). The pesticide may be chosen from insecticides (compounds which attack insect pests), acaricides (compounds which attack mites), fungicides (compounds which attack fungi), herbicides (compounds which attack "weeds" or weeds) and parasiticides (compounds which attack parasitic worms). Preferably, the fat according to the invention is used as an insecticide and / or as an acaricide. The insect fat according to the invention makes it possible to prevent and / or inhibit the effects of harmful insects and / or mites.

[0015] As demonstrated in examples, the insect fat according to the invention has pesticidal properties, in particular insecticidal and / or acaricidal properties, against various harmful insects, such as aphids and / or beetles, but also against mites. Said fat makes it possible to increase mortality and / or reduce the reproductive capacity of these pests.

[0016] Furthermore, the insect fat according to the invention reduces the environmental impact of pesticide production.

[0017] The present invention thus relates to the use of an insect fat as a pesticide. Preferably, the insect fat is used as an insecticide and / or as an acaricide.

[0018] By fat is meant a fatty substance present in a solid state at room temperature. (i.e. approximately 20°C). Preferably, the fat, and therefore the insect fat according to the invention, has a melting point of between 28°C and 42°C, preferably between 30°C and 40°C, preferably approximately 32°C.

[0019] The insect fat according to the invention may be any fat derived from an insect, in particular from a holometabolous insect. Holometabola are a superorder of insects. The development of holometabolous insects is characterized by a complete metamorphosis, i.e. an egg, then a larva (which differs greatly from adults), then a nymph, and finally an imago (adult). Preferably, the holometabolous insect is chosen from Diptera, preferably from Brachycera, preferably from Stratiomyidae.

[0020] Preferably, the insect fat according to the invention is derived from an insect of the order Diptera. Preferably the insect is of the family Stratiomyidae, preferably of the genus Hermetia. Preferably, the insect is Hermetia illucens. This species is also called black soldier fly.

[0021] The development of this species Hermetia illucens includes several stages: egg, then larva, prepupa, pupa and adult stage. Eggs and larvae kept at 30°C reach the prepupa stage in 2 to 3 weeks. Adults emerge 10 to 14 days after transforming into pupa. The adult fly only lives for about ten days.

[0022] It is the larva which is of most interest: it feeds mainly on organic plant co-products, and is rich in proteins and fatty acids.

[0023] Preferably, the insect fat has a total content of saturated fatty acids greater than the total content of unsaturated fatty acids. Preferably, it has a content of at least 32% by weight of lauric acid relative to the total weight of fatty acids. Finally, preferably, it has a content of at least 13% by weight of polyunsaturated fatty acids relative to the total weight of fatty acids.

[0024] Preferably, said fat comprises from 13% to 25% by weight, preferably from 14% to 22% by weight of polyunsaturated fatty acids relative to the total weight of fatty acids.

[0025] Preferably, said fat has the following profile, by weight relative to the total weight of fatty acids:

[0026] from 60% to 80% by weight, preferably from 65% to 75% by weight, preferably from 70% to 75% by weight of saturated fatty acids, and

[0027] from 20% to 40% by weight, preferably from 25% to 35% by weight, preferably from 25% to 30% by weight of unsaturated fatty acids,

[0028] preferably from 32% to 50% by weight, preferably from 40% to 45% by weight of lauric acid, and / or preferably from 10% to 20% by weight, preferably from 11% to 15% by weight of palmitic acid, and / or preferably from 5% to 15% by weight, preferably 7% to 10% by weight of myristic acid,

[0029] preferably from 10% to 20% by weight, preferably from 10% to 18% by weight of monounsaturated fatty acids, and / or preferably from 13% to 25% by weight, preferably from 14% to 22% by weight of polyunsaturated fatty acids, and / or preferably from 5% to 15% by weight, preferably from 7% to 11% by weight of oleic acid and its isomers,

[0030] preferably from 11% to 25% by weight, preferably from 12% to 21% by weight of linoleic acid, and / or preferably from 0.7% to 3% by weight, preferably from 1% to 2.5% by weight of alpha-linolenic acid.

[0031] The insect fat according to the invention has a total content of saturated fatty acids greater than the total content of unsaturated fatty acids, and a content of at least 32% by weight of lauric acid relative to the total weight of fatty acids. Preferably, the insect fat has a content of at least 35% by weight, preferably at least 40% by weight of lauric acid relative to the total weight of fatty acids.

[0032] By fatty acid is meant a carboxylic acid with an aliphatic carbon chain, said carbon chain comprising at least 8 carbon atoms. Preferably, the fatty acid comprises at least 10, preferably at least 12 carbon atoms. By saturated fatty acid is meant a fatty acid comprising no carbon-carbon double bonds. By unsaturated fatty acid is meant a fatty acid comprising one (monounsaturated fatty acid) or more (polyunsaturated fatty acid) carbon-carbon double bond(s).

[0033] Preferably, the insect fat according to the invention comes from insect larvae.

[0034] Preferably, the insect fat according to the invention is obtained by grinding the larvae and then extraction of the fat. Preferably, the extraction is mechanical and solvent-free.

[0035] The insect fat according to the invention comprises at least 90% by weight, preferably at least 95% by weight, preferably at least 99% by weight, of lipids relative to the total weight of fat.

[0036] The insect fat according to the invention preferably has a specific profile:

[0037] On the one hand, it has a total content of saturated fatty acids greater than the total content of unsaturated fatty acids.

[0038] On the other hand, it is rich in lauric acid: it has a content of at least 32% by weight of lauric acid relative to the total weight of fatty acids, preferably from 32% to 60% by weight of lauric acid relative to the total weight of fatty acids, preferably from 35% to 60% by weight, preferably from 40% to 60% by weight of lauric acid relative to the total weight of fatty acids.

[0039] Finally, preferably, it is rich in polyunsaturated fatty acids: it preferably has a content of at least 13% by weight of polyunsaturated fatty acids relative to the total weight of fatty acids, preferably from 13% to 25% by weight, preferably from 14% to 22% by weight of polyunsaturated fatty acids relative to the total weight of fatty acids. The polyunsaturated fatty acids are preferably chosen from linoleic acid, alpha-linolenic acid and mixtures thereof.

[0040] More preferably, the insect fat has the following profile, by weight relative to the total weight of fatty acids:

[0041] from 60% to 80% by weight, preferably from 65% to 75% by weight, preferably from 70% to 75% by weight of saturated fatty acids, and

[0042] from 20% to 40% by weight, preferably from 25% to 35% by weight, preferably from 25% to 30% by weight of unsaturated fatty acids.

[0043] Preferably, it comprises at least lauric acid, palmitic acid and myristic acid. Preferably, palmitic acid and myristic acid are each present in a content of at least 5% by weight relative to the total weight of fatty acids.

[0044] Preferably, it comprises from 32% to 50% by weight, preferably from 35% to 50% by weight, preferably from 40% to 45% by weight relative to the total weight of fatty acids, of lauric acid. Preferably, it comprises from 10% to 20% by weight, preferably from 11% to 15% by weight relative to the total weight of fatty acids of palmitic acid. Preferably, it comprises from 5% to 15% by weight, preferably from 7% to 10% by weight relative to the total weight of fatty acids of myristic acid.

[0045] Preferably, it also comprises monounsaturated fatty acids. Preferably, the monounsaturated fatty acids are chosen from oleic acid, palmitoleic acid and mixtures thereof.

[0046] Preferably, it also comprises polyunsaturated fatty acids. Preferably, it comprises linoleic acid and / or alpha-linolenic acid, preferably a mixture of linoleic acid and alpha-linolenic acid.

[0047] Preferably, it comprises from 10% to 20% by weight, preferably from 10% to 15% by weight of monounsaturated fatty acids, and / or preferably from 13% to 25% by weight, preferably from 14% to 22% by weight of polyunsaturated fatty acids relative to the total weight of fatty acids.

[0048] Preferably, it comprises from 5% to 15% by weight, preferably from 7% to 11% by weight of oleic acid and its isomers relative to the total weight of fatty acids. Preferably, it comprises from 1% to 5% by weight, preferably from 1.5% to 3% by weight of palmitoleic acid relative to the total weight of fatty acids.

[0049] Preferably, it comprises from 11% to 25% by weight, preferably from 12% to 21% by weight of linoleic acid relative to the total weight of fatty acids. Preferably, it comprises from 0.7% to 3% by weight, preferably from 1% to 2.5% by weight of alpha-linolenic acid relative to the total weight of fatty acids.

[0050] According to an alternative embodiment, the insect fat has a total content in saturated fatty acids of between 40% and 50% by weight relative to the total weight of fatty acids, and a total content of unsaturated fatty acids of between 50% and 60% by weight relative to the total weight of fatty acids. This fat is called "alternative fat". Said alternative fat further comprises at least 20% by weight of lauric acid relative to the total weight of fatty acids. Said alternative fat is also used as a pesticide.

[0051] The insect fat according to the invention is used as a pesticide, preferably as an insecticide and / or as an acaricide.

[0052] Insect fat can be used on all types of crops. Without this being limiting, the crop treated with the insect fat according to the invention is for example the vine, but it can be cereals, vegetables, alfalfa, soybeans, market garden crops, grass, wood, trees or horticultural plants. The use according to the invention can also treat propagation material such as tubers or rhizomes, but also seeds, seedlings or transplanted seedlings and plants or transplanted plants. It can also be useful for treating roots. The use according to the invention can also treat the aerial parts of the plant such as trunks, stems or stalks, leaves, flowers and fruits of the plant concerned.

[0053] Among the plants that may be protected by the use according to the invention, mention may be made of cotton, flax, vines, fruit or vegetable crops such as Rosaceae sp. (for example pome fruits such as apples and pears, but also stone fruits such as apricots, almonds and peaches), Ribesioidae sp., Juglandaceae sp., Betulaceae sp., Anacardiaceae sp., Fagaceae sp., Moraceae sp., Oleaceae sp., Actinidaceae sp., Lauraceae sp., Musaceae sp. (for example bananas and plantains), Rubiaceae sp., Theaceae sp., Sterculiceae sp., Rutaceae sp. (for example lemons, oranges and grapefruits); Solanaceae sp. (for example tomatoes), Liliaceae sp., Asteraceae sp. (e.g. lettuces), Umbelliferae sp., Cruciferae sp., Cheno-podiaceae sp., Cucurbitaceae sp., Papilionaceae sp. (e.g. pea), Rosaceae sp. (e.g. strawberries); major crops such as Graminae sp.(e.g. maize, grass or cereals such as wheat, rice, barley and triticale), Asteraceae sp. (e.g. sunflower), Cruciferae sp. (e.g. rapeseed), Fabacae sp. (e.g. peanuts), Papilionaceae sp. (e.g. soybean), Solanaceae sp. (e.g. potatoes), Chenopodiaceae sp. (e.g. beets); horticultural and forestry crops; as well as genetically modified counterparts of these crops.

[0054] According to one embodiment, the insect fat according to the invention is applied by spraying onto the plants. Preferably, the insect fat according to the invention, solid at room temperature, is preheated to be liquefied before use. Preferably, the insect fat according to the invention is used pure, therefore as is, i.e. in undiluted form.

[0055] Insects harmful to crops ("pests" or "pests") which can be controlled at any stage of development using the pesticidal composition (insecticide and / or acaricide) according to the invention include:

[0056] • pests of the arachnid class, for example Tetranychus spp., Scorpio maurus, Latrodectus mactans, Acarus siro, Argas spp., Ornithodoros spp., Der-manyssus gallinae, Eriophyes ribis, Phyllocoptruta oleivora, Boophilus spp., Rhipi-cephalus spp., Amblyomma spp., Hyalomma spp., Ixodes spp., Psoroptes spp., Chorioptes spp., Sarcoptes spp., Tarsonemus spp., Bryobia praetiosa, Panonychus spp., Hemitarsonemus spp., Brevipalpus spp. Preferably, the arachnid is Tetranychus urticae: it is a phytophagous mite that is commonly found on various plants, especially in greenhouses and on perennial plants. It causes damage to trees, vegetables and ornamental plants. It is commonly called the tetanus weaver because of the webs it spins on colonized plants;

[0057] • pests of the order Coleoptera, for example Sitophilus spp., Anobium punctatum, Rhizopertha dominica, Bruchidius obtectus, Acanthoscelides obtectus, Hy-lotrupes bajulus, Agelastica alni, Leptinotarsa ​​decemlineata, Phaedon cochleariae, Diabrotica spp., Psylliodes chrysocephala, Epilachna varivestis, Atomaria spp., Ory-zaephilus surinamensis, Anthonomus spp., Otiorrhynchus sulcatus, Cosmopolites sordidus, Ceuthorrhynchus assimilis, Hypera postica, Dermestes spp., Trogoderma spp., Anthrenus spp., Attagenus spp., Lyctus spp., Meligethes aeneus, Ptinus spp. Gibbium psylloides, Tribolium spp., Tenebrio molitor, Agriotes spp., Conoderus spp., Melolontha melolontha, Amphimallon solstitialis, Costelytra zealandica, Lissorhoptrus oryzophilus. De préférence, le Coléoptère is Sitophilus granarius (calandre du blé); c'est un Coléoptère de la famille des Curculionidae long de 3 à 4mm. Ce charançon est un ravageur import des dernées stockées. Il est aussi couramment utilisate comme espèce modèle pour les tests d'efficacy.Adults lay their eggs near cereal grains (wheat, barley, oats, spelt, possibly flours and compound feed). The larva develops inside the grains then passes to the adult stage and the cycle begins again; .

[0058] • pests of the order Hemiptera, in particular of the family Aphidididae (aphids), preferably Sitobion spp. The preferred Hemiptera is Sitobion avenue, which is ubiquitous in distribution, particularly in temperate regions of the northern hemisphere. This polyphagous aphid colonizes plants of the Poacae family, both cultivated (barley, wheat, corn, rice) and non-cultivated plants. Adults, as well as larvae, feed on the phloem of colonized plants, which causes yield loss in the event of outbreaks. Excess honeydew can also lead to the development of sooty mold. This aphid is also a vector of viruses, notably barley yellow dwarf virus (BYDV);

[0059] • pests of the order Isopods for example Oniscus asellus, Armadillidium vulgare, Porcellio scaber;

[0060] • pests of the order Diplopoda, for example Blaniulus guttulatus;

[0061] • pests of the order Chilopoda, for example Geophilus carpophagus, Scutigera spp. ;

[0062] • pests of the order Symphyla, for example Scutigerella immaculata;

[0063] • pests of the order Thysanura for example Lepisma saccharina;

[0064] • pests of the order Collembola, for example Onychiurus armatus;

[0065] • pests of the order Orthoptera, for example Acheta domesticus, Gryllotalpa spp., Locusta migratoria migratohoides, Melanoplus spp., Schistocerca gregaria;

[0066] • pests of the order Blattaria, for example Blatta orientalis, Periplaneta americana, Leucophaea maderae, Blattella germanica;

[0067] • pests of the order Dermaptera, for example Forficula auricularia;

[0068] • pests of the order Isoptera, for example Reticulitermes spp.;

[0069] • pests of the order Phthiraptera, for example Pediculus humanus corporis, Haematopinus spp., Linognathus spp., Trichodectes spp., Damalinia spp. ;

[0070] • pests of the order Thysanoptera, for example Hercinothrips femoralis, Thrips tabaci, Thrips palmi, Frankliniella accidentis;

[0071] • pests of the order Heteroptera, for example Eurygaster spp., Dysdercus intermedius, Piesma quadrata, Cimex lectularius, Rhodnius prolixus, Triatoma spp;

[0072] • les ravageurs de l'ordre des homoptères, par example Aleurodes brassicae, Bemisia tobacco, Trialeurodes vaporariorum, Aphis gossypii, Brevicoryne brassicae, Cryptomyzus ribis, Aphis fabae, Aphis pomi, Eriosoma lanigerum, Hyalopterus arundinis, Phylloxera vastatrix, Pemphigus spp., Macrosiphum avenae, Myzus spp., Phorodon humuli, Rhopalosiphum padi, Empoasca spp., Euscelis bilobatus, Ne-photettix cincticeps, Lecanium corni, Saissetia oleae, Laodelphax striatellus, Ni-laparvata lugens, Aonidiella aurantii, Aspidiotus hederae, Pseudococcus spp., Psylla spp.;

[0073] • les ravageurs de l'ordre des Lépidoptères par exemple Pectinophora gossypiella, Bupalus piniarius, Cheimatobia brumata, Lithocolletis blancardella, Hyponomeuta padella, Plutella xylostella, Malacosoma neustria, Euproctis chrysorrhoea, Lymantria spp., Bucculatrix thurberiella, Phyllocnistis citrella, Ephestia kuehniella, Galleria mellonella, Tineola bisselliella, Tinea pellionella, Hofmannophila pseudospretella, Cacoecia podana, Capua reticulana, Choristoneura fumiferana, Clysia ambiguella, Homona magnanima, Tortrix viridana, Cnaphalocerus spp., Ouléma oryzae;

[0074] • pests of the Hymenoptera order, for example Diprion spp., Hoplocampa spp., Lasius spp., Monomorium pharaonis, Vespa spp;

[0075] • pests of the Diptera order for example Aedes spp., Anopheles spp., Culex spp., Drosophila melanogaster, Musca spp., Fannia spp., Calliphora ery-throcephala, Lucilia spp., Chrysomyia spp., Cuterebra spp., Gastrophilus spp., Hyppobosca spp., Stomoxys spp., Oestrus spp., Hypoderma spp., Tabanus spp., Tannia spp., Bibio hortulanus, Oscinella frit, Phorbia spp., Pegomyia hyoscyami, Ceratitis capitata, Dacus oleae, Tipula paludosa, Hylemyia spp., Liriomyza spp.;

[0076] les ravageurs de l'ordre des Siphonaptères par exemple Xenopsylla cheopis, Cera- tophyllus spp.;

[0077] • neamnotic phytoparasites such as Pratylenchus spp., Radopholus similis, Di- Tylenchus dipsaci, Tylenchulus semipenetrans, Heterodera spp., Globodera spp., Meloidogyne spp., Aphelenchoides spp., Longidorus spp., Xiphinema spp., Trichodorus spp., Bursaphelenchus spp.

[0078] Preferably, the pests are insects and / or mites. Preferably, the insects are of the orders Hemiptera, Thysanoptera, Coleoptera or Lepidoptera. Preferably, the pests are aphids, mites or beetles.

[0079] Preferably, when the pests are aphids or beetles, the insect fat according to the invention is used at a dose ranging from 0.0001 to 0.001 L / ha, preferably from 0.0002 to 0.0008 L / ha.

[0080] Preferably, when the pests are mites, the insect fat according to the invention is used at a dose ranging from 0.001 to 0.01 L / ha, preferably from 0.002 to 0.006 L / ha.

[0081] Preferably, the insect fat according to the invention makes it possible to increase the mortality of pests and / or to reduce the reproductive capacity of pests.

[0082] Typically, the grease according to the invention increases pest mortality by at least 10 times, typically after 48 hours of exposure, compared to an untreated pest population.

[0083] By "reducing the reproductive capacity" of pests is meant that the fat according to the invention slows down the multiplication of said pests and / or reduces the number of egg-layings. Preferably, the multiplication of pests is measured by the rate of increase of the pest population. This rate of increase can be measured as indicated in Example 2 below.

[0084] Typically, the grease according to the invention reduces the rate of increase of a pest population by at least 10%, preferably by at least 15%, typically after 48 hours of exposure, compared to an untreated pest population.

[0085] Typically, the fat according to the invention reduces the number of eggs laid by at least 20%, preferably by at least 30%, typically after 48 hours of exposure, compared to a population of untreated pests.

[0086] The present invention also relates to a method of treating a crop, comprising applying an insect fat according to the invention to said crop.

[0087] The insect fat and culture are as previously described.

[0088] The application of the insect fat to the crop can be carried out by any means. Preferably, the insect fat according to the invention is applied by spraying onto the crop. The insect fat according to the invention can be preheated to liquefy it before use. Preferably, the insect fat according to the invention is used pure, i.e. as is, i.e. in undiluted form.

[0089] The invention is now illustrated by the following examples.

[0090] Example 1: Preparation of insect fat according to the invention

[0091] Fat is extracted from Hernia lia illucens larvae.

[0092] The larvae are raised and fed with a substrate of 100% plant origin. The extraction is mechanical and solvent-free. The extraction process may include extraction by mechanical pressing of the larvae previously crushed and heated in order to extract the fatty substances. Alternatively, it may also include separation of the fatty substances by three-phase decantation of the larvae previously crushed, heated and mixed with a small proportion of water.

[0093] The fat obtained is solid (set) at room temperature, and has a melting point of 25 to 45°C.

[0094] This fat is an animal feed ingredient, which is unfit for human consumption.

[0095] The fatty acid profile is as follows (% by weight relative to the total weight of fatty acids):

[0096] Total saturated fatty acids: 65% to 75%.

[0097] 11-15% palmitic acid, 38-45% lauric acid and 7-10% myristic acid.

[0098] Total unsaturated fatty acids: 25% to 35%.

[0099] 10-18% monounsaturated fatty acids and 14-22% polyunsaturated fatty acids.

[0100] 7-15% oleic acid and isomers, 1-2.5% alpha-linolenic acid and 11-20% of linoleic acid.

[0101] Example 2: Use of insect fat according to the invention as a pesticide (insecticide) on Sitobion avenae aphids

[0102] The organisms used come from laboratory breeding. Tested substances:

[0103] -Insect fat according to example 1

[0104] - Positive control (PC):

[0105] Standard toxic, trade name: Karaté Zéon

[0106] Active substance: Lambda-cyhalothrin

[0107] Concentration: 100 g / 1

[0108] Formulation: suspension (CS)

[0109] Dose tested: 0.01 1 of product formulated in a 200 1 / ha mixture

[0110] Dilution DI 1 ml of Karaté Zéon CS in 200 ml of water [5.0 ml / 1]

[0111] Dilution D2 1 ml of DI + 99 ml of water [0.05 ml / 1]

[0112] -Negative control: Water.

[0113] Test unit, application and experimental design

[0114] Each experimental unit is composed of 8 strands of winter barley in the same pot. The day before the application of the products, each pot was infested with about forty aphids. The pots were individually isolated using a plexiglass sleeve with mesh openings to allow ventilation.

[0115] Shortly before spraying, the aphids were counted in each pot. Then, during the spraying period, the sleeve was removed and the plants were treated. The sleeves were then replaced on each pot. 48 hours after spraying, the aphids were counted again. Each treatment has 5 repetitions. Application of the test substances

[0116] Spraying was carried out using an airbrush (Harder & Steenbeck), connected to a compressor to bring the spray pressure to 2 bars for the positive and negative controls and 4 bars for the insect fat (the latter being more viscous). The treatments were sprayed from left to right and from right to left (in a zigzag pattern), starting from the upper left corner of a 1 m2 quadrant and finishing in the lower right corner. The spraying follows the 9 lines placed at regular intervals, horizontally and vertically on the dial, forming 10 cm2 squares to ensure homogeneous spraying. The 5 pots belonging to the same treatment were placed in the center of the dial. The water control was sprayed first, then the insect fat and finally, the toxic control. The apparatus was rinsed between each treatment with methanol, followed by water.In order to allow the grease (solid at room temperature) to be sprayed, it and the airbrush were kept at a temperature of around 45°C using a heating plate just before spraying. Biological observations

[0117] The effectiveness of the product was evaluated by comparing the rate of increase in the aphid population (effective after 48 hours / initial effective) and correcting it with that of the control, using Abbot's formula (Abbot, 1925):

[0118] [Math.l] DRc = (IRï - IRo)HRt

[0119] where DRc= reduction in the population growth rate for the product, IRo= observed population growth rate for the product, IRt = Observed population growth rate for the control. Data analysis and statistical processing

[0120] Data were analyzed using R software, version 4.1.2. Population growth rate was analyzed using GLM. Means of population growth rates were compared using Dunnett's test. Results and discussion

[0121] The results are presented in Table 1. The test is considered valid since a reduction of more than 80% of the aphid population was observed in the toxic control after 48h.

[0122] Average increase in the population of Sitobion a venae on plants of barley 48 hours after treatment. The mean comparison test is a Dunnett contrast (* = p<0fi5, ** = pcOJll and : ). Reduction in the rate population increase (%) compared to the control

[0123] [Tables 1] Tested Products Average Growth (± sd) Reduction in Population Growth Rate (%) Water Control 1.42 + 0.27 - Toxic Control 0.20 + 0.06 *** 86.18 Insect Fat 1.14 + 0.17 * 19.63

[0124] The test carried out shows a significant reduction in the rate of increase of the aphid population of 19.63% in the treatment with insect fat according to the invention compared to the water control. Insect fat has an effect on the rate of multiplication of aphids, although this remains much lower than lambda-cy-halothrin used as a toxic control (reduction in the rate of increase of 86.18%).

[0125] Nevertheless, it was observed that the aphid population increased 48 hours after the grease treatment (average growth rate > 1), unlike the toxic control, which resulted in a reduction in the number of aphids. This indicates that the activity of the grease has little or no effect on the survival of the aphids, but does affect their multiplication rate.

[0126] Insect fat therefore shows potential for limiting the rate of increase of Sitobion avenae populations on winter barley, although this potential remains limited. since it only slows down the multiplication of aphids, without reducing their initial population. Conclusion:

[0127] Compared to the water control, the pure insect fat according to the invention allowed a significant reduction in the rate of increase of the Sitobion avenae population on barley (19.63%) after 48 hours of exposure. Unlike the toxic control, the insect fat seems to slow down the multiplication of aphids but does not kill the aphids initially present (average population increase rate of 1.14).

[0128] Example 3: Use of insect fat according to the invention as a pesticide (acaricide) on Tetranvchus urticae mites

[0129] The organisms used are adult females from laboratory breeding. Substances tested:

[0130] -Insect fat according to example 1

[0131] - Positive control (PC):

[0132] Standard toxicant, trade name: Mavrik 2F

[0133] Active substance: Tau-fluvalinate

[0134] Concentration: 240 g / 1

[0135] Formulation: concentrated aqueous emulsion (EW)

[0136] Dose tested: 0.2 1 of product formulated in a 200 1 / ha mixture

[0137] DI dilution 1 ml of Mavrik 2F in 100 ml of water [10.0 ml / 1]

[0138] Dilution D2 10 ml of DI + 90 ml of water [1.0 ml / 1]

[0139] -Negative control: Water. Test unit, application and experimental design

[0140] Bean leaf slices (0 30 mm) were cut and then placed on a damp cloth, on an open Petri dish. Ten female mites were placed on each leaf disc using a fine paintbrush. After 24 hours, the laid eggs were removed from the leaves before applying the different spray treatments. Each treatment was repeated 4 times. Application of tested substances

[0141] Spraying was carried out using an airbrush (Harder & Steenbeck), connected to a compressor to bring the spray pressure to 2 bars for the control treatments (negative and positive) and 4 bars for the grease (the latter being more viscous). The treatments were sprayed from left to right and from right to left, starting from the upper left corner of a 1 m2 quadrant and finishing in the right corner. The spraying follows the 9 lines placed at regular intervals, horizontally and vertically on the quadrant, forming 10 cm2 squares to ensure a uniform spraying. homogeneous spraying. The control was sprayed first, then the insect grease and finally the positive control. To allow the grease (solid at room temperature) to be sprayed, it was kept at around 45°C by heating the grease and the airbrush just before application using a hot plate. Biological observations

[0142] Dead and live mites were counted 48 hours after treatment, as well as eggs laid. Treatment efficacy was assessed based on mortality and fertility. Data analysis and statistical processing

[0143] Mortality was measured as the reduction in the initial population corrected compared to the control, via Abbot's formula (Abbott, 1925):

[0144] [Math.2] Mc = [(Mo-M / j / ClOO-MOJ^lOO

[0145] Where Mc = corrected mortality (%), Mo = observed mortality in the treated group (%) and Mt = control mortality (%).

[0146] Fertility was calculated based on the number of eggs laid in 48 hours divided by the average number of living females:

[0147] [Math.3] Fertility = free egg s after ^hj(eff tO + eff48h) / 2)

[0148] The fertility reduction was also corrected against control via Abbott's formula (Abbott, 1925):

[0149] [Math.4] FRc = ((Ft-Fo) / Ft)*100

[0150] Where FRc = Corrected fertility reduction (%), Fo = Fertility observed in the treated group and Ft = Fertility in the control.

[0151] Data were analyzed using R software, version 4.1.2. Percentage mortality and fertility were analyzed using binomial GLMs. Means were compared to the negative control (water) using a Dunnett test. Results and discussion

[0152] The results are shown in Table 2 (insect fat is indicated as "insect oil"). The test is considered valid since the toxic control allowed a very significant reduction in the mite population (corrected mortality of 71.1%) compared to the negative control, and that the mortality in the water control is less than 10% (5%).

[0153] Average mortality, egg production and reduced fertility of female Te-tranichus urticae 48h after exposure to treated bean leaf slices. Mean comparisons were made by Dunnett's contrast (* = p<0.05, ** = p<0.01 and ***=p<0.001)

[0154] [Tables2] Tested Products Mortality (%} Corrected Mortality Number of eggs per female ± sd Reduction in fertility Water control 5.0 ± 5.8 - 5.8 ± 1.1 - Toxic control 72.5 ± 22.2 71.1 1.5 ± 0.9 s'! 74.35 Insect oil 12 5 ± 25.0 7.9 2.7 ± 0.5 54.17

[0155] The results indicate that insect fat had no significant effect on mite survival (corrected mortality of 7.9%). However, it did significantly reduce female fertility compared to water treatment (54.17%). Visually, the mites on leaves treated with insect fat had slowed activity. Their movements appeared to be hampered by the fact that the webs these weaver mites naturally weave were covered in fat. Conclusion:

[0156] Insect fat applied by foliar spray did not show any acaricidal effect after 48h (corrected mortality of 7.9%). However, females exposed to insect fat showed a significant decrease in the number of egg layings (54.17%) compared to the water control. In addition, insect fat would appear to slow down the effect of spider mites.

[0157] Example 4: Use of insect fat according to the invention as a pesticide (insecticide) on the beetles Sitophilus granarius

[0158] The adults used for the test were from the laboratory breeding maintained at room temperature on wheat grains. Substances tested:

[0159] -Insect fat according to example 1

[0160] - Positive control (PC):

[0161] Standard toxic, trade name: Karaté Zéon

[0162] Active substance: Lambda-cyhalothrin

[0163] Concentration: 100 g / 1

[0164] Formulation: suspension (CS)

[0165] Dose tested: 0.01 1 of product formulated in a 200 1 / ha mixture

[0166] -Negative control: Water or beeswax.

[0167] Test unit, application and experimental design

[0168] The test unit consists of a 9 cm diameter glass Petri dish. Into this unit was poured either pure insect fat, beeswax or a mixture of beeswax and insect fat in the following proportions: 50%, 25%, 12.5% ​​and 6.25%. Before being cast, the insect fat and beeswax were first heated to 70°C in an oven.

[0169] For each treatment, 4 Petri dishes are made. In each of the dishes, 10 insects will be released. All the dishes are placed at room temperature (20°C + / -2°C). Application of tested substances

[0170] Water and lambda-cyhalothrin were applied to the Petri dishes (empty or with wax) using a Burgerjon tower based on a volume of 200 1 / ha. The device was calibrated to deliver 2 mg / cm2 + / -10% corresponding to an application of 200 l / ha + / -10%. The application was controlled gravimetrically by weighing a glass plate before and after spraying. The products were applied in the following order: water, lambda-cyhalothrin. Biological observations

[0171] After the release of the insects into the boxes, the status of each individual was assessed after 1h, 1h30, 2h30, 4h30, 24h and 96h of exposure and classified:

[0172] Alive: no signs of intoxication, normal behavior;

[0173] Affected: sign of intoxication;

[0174] Dead: no sign of life. Data analysis and statistical processing

[0175] For each treatment, the observed mortalities were corrected according to Abbott's formula (Abbott, 1925):

[0176] [Math.5] Mc = [(Mo-Mt) / (100-M0]*100

[0177] Where Mc = corrected mortality (%), Mo = observed mortality in the treated group (%) and Mt = control mortality (%).

[0178] Data were analyzed using R software, version 4.1.2. Mortality percentage was calculated using binomial GLMs. Means were compared using Tuckey's t-test. Results and discussion

[0179] The results obtained are listed in Table 3. The test is considered valid with zero mortality in the negative controls and mortality exceeding 90% with the reference insecticide applied to glass.

[0180] Mean mortality + standard deviation (%) after 1h, 1h30, 2h30, 4h30, 24h and 96h after release of insects in Petri dishes containing pure insect fat (H) and diluted in beeswax, wax treated with water (TG) or lambda-cyhalothrin (TSG), treated directly with water (T-) or lambda- cyhalothrin (TS). Mortalities with the same letter are not significantly different (Tuckey t-test)

[0181] [Tables3] ftëctrtaliié ± sd (%) Effective Treatment ih ih30 2h30 4h30 24h 96b ■Water control (T-) ■40 0 4 0 a 0 4 0 ab o ± 0 3 0 4 0 a 0 ± 0 ab G ± G a Confrôle wax (TG) 40 0 ​​0 a 0 + 0 ab 0 r ■0 a 0: 4 0 a 0 0 0 40 ab o Fat 6.25% 40 0 ​​4 G a 0 4 0 ab G 1- 0 a 0 È 0 a 2..5. -4 5 ab 8 5.8. à Fat 12.5%' 40 0 ​​i 0 a 0 4 0 ab 0 r 0 a 0: È 0 a 0 4 O ab 2.5 '4 5 5 Fat 25% 40 0 ​​0 a Q 4 0 ab 0 ± 0 a 0 0 a 0 0 ± 0 ab B 4 0 a Fat ± 50% a Ü 0 ± 0 ab 0 ± G a 0' 4 0 a 0 0 ab 0 0 a Fat 100% 40- 10 3.2 a 40 4 13.3 a 52.5 ± 25- b 72.5 4 21.5 b 55 10 a 97.5 s Karate Zeon a ± 00 ± 40. 2.8 S b 25 ± 5.3 ab 52.8 4 9.6 b 48 4 8.8 b 97, s: 4 5 b Karate Zéœ sur çtrenSG) 40 0 ​​4 0 a ■2.5 4 5 b § 4 SS a 12.5 r 5 a 82 82 ± 178 ± 178 ab. b

[0182] After 1h30 of exposure, pure insect fat showed significantly higher acute toxicity than the reference insecticide, lambda-cyhalotrin, both applied to glass and wax. This higher toxicity of insect fat was maintained during the first 24h. At the end of the test, i.e. after 96h, the toxicity of pure insect fat was comparable to that observed with the reference insecticide.

[0183] As for the different dilutions of insect fat in beeswax, surprisingly no toxicity was observed, whatever the concentration tested. Several hypotheses can be formulated on the absence of toxic effect following this dilution:

[0184] (1) too strong a dilution although a 2x factor is commonly used;

[0185] (2) sequestration of toxic compounds from insect fat by wax;

[0186] (3) degradation of the active ingredients of insect fat when mixed with hot wax. Conclusion:

[0187] Pure insect fat has a contact insecticidal effect on adults of Sitop hilus granarius comparable to that of the toxic reference Karaté Zéon but acts more quickly than the latter. From the first hour of exposure, an average mortality of 40% was observed with insect fat whereas with the toxic reference the average mortality was 2.5%. On the contrary, when diluting this insect fat with beeswax, no toxicity towards S. granarius could be demonstrated at the concentrations tested: 50%, 25%, 12.5% ​​or 6.25%.

Claims

Claims

1. Use of an insect fat as an insecticide and / or as an acaricide.

2. Use according to claim 1, characterized in that the insect fat is a fat from a holometabolous insect, preferably from an insect of the order Diptera, preferably from an insect of the family Stratiomyidae, preferably from the genus Hermetia, preferably from Hermetia illucens.

3. Use according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that the insect fat has a total content of saturated fatty acids greater than the total content of unsaturated fatty acids, and optionally having a content of at least 32% by weight of lauric acid relative to the total weight of fatty acids.

4. Use according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the insect fat comprises a content of at least 13% by weight of polyunsaturated fatty acids relative to the total weight of fatty acids in the fat; preferably it comprises from 13% to 25% by weight, preferably from 14% to 22% by weight of polyunsaturated fatty acids relative to the total weight of fatty acids.

5. Use according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the insect fat comprises a content of at least 35% by weight, preferably at least 40% by weight of lauric acid relative to the total weight of fatty acids.

6. Use according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the insect fat is applied to a crop chosen from cereals, vines, vegetables, alfalfa, soybeans, market garden crops, grass, wood, trees and horticultural plants.

7. Use according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the insect fat is applied by spraying onto a crop, preferably it is preheated to be liquefied before use, preferably it is used pure.

8. Use according to one of the preceding claims, as a pesticide, preferably as an insecticide and / or as an acaricide, against pests chosen from pests of the class of arachnids, pests of the order of Coleoptera, pests of the order of Hemiptera, pests of the order of Isopods, pests of the order of Diplopoda, pests of the order of Chilopoda, pests of the order Symphyla, pests of the order Thysanura, pests of the order Collembola, pests of the order Orthoptera, pests of the order Blattaria, pests of the order Dermaptera, pests of the order Isoptera, pests of the order Phthiraptera, pests of the order Thysanoptera, pests of the order Heteroptera, pests of the order Homoptera, pests of the order Lepidoptera, pests of the order Hymenoptera, pests of the order Diptera, pests of the order Siphonaptera and plant-parasitic neamnotes, preferably as a pesticide, more preferably as an insecticide and / or as an acaricide, against pests chosen from insects of the orders Hemiptera, Thysanoptera, Coleoptera and Lepidoptera and mites, preferably insects are aphids or beetles.

9. Use according to claim 8, characterized in that the insect fat increases the mortality of the pests and / or decreases the reproductive capacity of the pests.

10. A method of treating a crop selected from vines, cereals, vegetables, alfalfa, soybeans, market garden crops, turf, wood, trees and horticultural plants, comprising applying an insect fat according to one of claims 2 to 5 to said crop.